How to Turn High Speed Rail into an Economic Engine for San Joaquin Valley

A lunchtime discussion in Fresno on managing the economic and environmental impacts of the high speed rail project in the San Joaquin Valley. A panel of legal, economic, and business experts will discuss their findings and offer policy ideas to address the challenges that local companies, nonprofits, and public officials will face.

The event coincides with the release of a joint report by UCLA and UC Berkeley Schools of Law, A High Speed Foundation, which is embargoed until August 20, at 12:00 pm E.T. The new report outlines ways policymakers, industry leaders and other stakeholders can ensure that high speed rail is successfully implemented in the Valley. The paper also identifies ways for California to optimize growth patterns around the high speed rail system.

WHEN: Tuesday, August 20, 2013 12:00 pm to 1:30 pm (registration begins at 11:00am)Lunch will be served at 11:30am for all attendees (including media), followed by the keynote address at noon

WHERE: Grand on 101401 Fulton Street, Suite 212Fresno, CA 93721

BACKGROUND: Construction is scheduled to begin soon in the San Joaquin Valley on Phase 1 of the $68.4 billion high speed rail system. What will the impact be on the Valley’s cities, farms and pocketbooks? How can Valley leaders ensure that the system maximizes the economic and environmental benefits for residents? This event will address these questions and challenges.

CONTACT: For information about the event and the report, contact Ethan Elkind at 310-729-0902 or eelkind@law.berkeley.edu.